Birjand

Birjand

City of Pines, City of Culture and Literature, Land of Culture and Arts

The most populated city and the capital of South Khorasan Province, Birjand borders Qaen County in the north, the cities of Darmian and Sarbisheh in the east, the city of Nahbandan and Kerman Province in the south and the cities of Sarayan and Tabas in the west.

The city has cold desert climate and experiences extremely dry and hot summers and cool winters.

The name Birjand is believed to mean “land of storms.” Based on archeological finds and ruins of Zoroastrian fire temples scattered around the city, the history of Birjand is estimated to date back to at least 4,000 years ago. Birjand had relative prominence in Sassanid (226-651 CE) times.

The city’s natural attractions consist of Band Dareh Lake which has formed behind the historic Band Dareh dam, and Chardeh Waterfalls where rock and mountain climbers can challenge themselves and enjoy the 80 waterfalls of the area. Birjand also borders Lut Desert - one of the driest places on earth and a UNESCO registered Natural Heritage Site. Lut is the perfect getaway for those who find the idea of venturing into desert to find the hottest place on the planet appealing.

Birjand is one of the top producers of saffron, which is known as red gold for its commercial value, in Iran.